O2 has become the first UK operator to receive Bebo Open Mobile Partner status.

Bebo launched the programme earlier this month with the goal of enabling third parties to offer and integrate with its eponymous social networking site.

O2 says it will benefit from access to Open Mobile's mobile internet, messaging and media technologies, and will collaborate with Bebo to offer exclusive mobile content to its users.

Antony Douglas, Head of Content at O2, said: “We know how important social networks are to our customers and have seen huge traffic growth to Bebo and other social networking sites over our portal. Becoming a Bebo Open Mobile Partner will further enhance the experience for our customers.”